“We are always aiming for titles,” Al Ahly coach Marcel Koller said as his team prepares to kick off their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League title defence against Stade d’Abidjan on Tuesday.
The group stage of the 2024/2025 edition of the competition starts, promising a series of thrilling encounters as Africa’s top clubs battle for continental supremacy.
Al Ahly headline the action as they take on Stade d’Abidjan, while other heavyweight clashes are set to light up the competition.
The Egyptian giants, aiming for a third consecutive title, will look to assert their dominance when they host the Ivorian side at the Cairo International Stadium.
The Red Eagles are unbeaten in their last 15 home TotalEnergies CAF Champions League games, a record that includes 13 wins. Coach Marcel Koller emphasized the team’s ambitious mindset:
Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Monday, Koller noted, “The current edition will be very difficult as all the teams share the same ambition. But the pressure from our fans is a positive force that drives us to achieve and set new goals.”
Al Ahly enters the tournament as back-to-back champions, unbeaten in their last 15 home matches in the competition.
Captain Mohamed El Shenawy expressed similar determination: “Our goal is to win this title for the third time in a row. We’re a generation used to chasing trophies and facing pressure, and we’ll take it step by step to reach our ultimate objective.”
Stade d’Abidjan coach Alexandre Lafitte acknowledged the challenge ahead: “We are in a tough group with some of Africa’s most experienced teams, but we’ve worked hard to prepare. Our goal is to progress and make our mark.”
Al Hilal and MC Alger Face Challenging Away Fixtures
In Group A, Al Hilal travel to Tanzania to face Young Africans, with coach Florent Ibenge aiming for a strong start in a competitive group.
Meanwhile, Algeria’s MC Alger return to the Champions League after four years to face DR Congo’s TP Mazembe.
MC Alger’s French coach Patrice Baumel will be keen to replicate their domestic success on the continental stage.
Moroccan Rivals Clash in Group B
A derby between Raja Casablanca and FAR Rabat headlines Group B. Raja, despite their inconsistent form this season, hope to rediscover their rhythm under coach Ricardo Sapinto.
FAR, currently higher in the Moroccan league standings, will rely on coach Hubert Velud’s tactical expertise to gain an edge.
Elsewhere, South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns meet Manema Union of DR Congo in a clash of contrasting styles.
Group D Showdowns
Last year’s runners-up Esperance take on Djoliba of Mali, with Romanian coach Laurent Rijkamp looking to continue their recent domestic resurgence.
Egyptian side Pyramids FC will also aim to make a strong start against Angola’s Sagrada at the Air Defense Stadium in Cairo.
Chabab Belouizdad vs Orlando Pirates
Group C also features a high-stakes clash between Algeria’s Chabab Belouizdad and South Africa’s Orlando Pirates. Both sides are eager to secure early points in their quest for qualification.
